Newark, New Jersey – Sean Strickland secured the UFC’s 185-pound championship for the second time, defeating Khamzat Chimaev via split decision in the main event of UFC 328 on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Prudential Center. Following the hard-fought contest, Chimaev displayed a notable act of sportsmanship by personally wrapping the championship belt around Strickland's waist. "Khamzat Chimaev put the belt on Sean Strickland 👏 Respect between the two fighters 🤝 #UFC328," ESPN highlighted in a social media post, capturing the moment of mutual regard.
The victory marked a significant comeback for Strickland, who had previously held the middleweight title. Judges scored the bout 48-47 in favor of Strickland on two cards, with the third judge scoring it 48-47 for Chimaev, underscoring the fight's competitive nature. Despite intense pre-fight trash talk and animosity, the two fighters tapped gloves to start the match, and the post-fight gesture solidified a sense of professional respect.
Chimaev, who suffered his first professional loss in 16 fights, landed nine takedowns but struggled to maintain control, as Strickland consistently scrambled back to his feet. UFC CEO Dana White indicated that Chimaev expressed interest in moving up a weight class after the fight. The display of sportsmanship from Chimaev, despite the loss, was widely praised by fans and analysts, demonstrating that the rivalry was confined to the octagon.
In other notable bouts at UFC 328, Joshua Van successfully defended his 125-pound championship against Tatsuro Taira in the co-main event, securing a fifth-round TKO. Jim Miller also made history with a record-setting submission victory over Jared Gordon, marking his return to the cage after his son's battle with cancer. The event was lauded as one of the strongest cards of 2026, delivering on competitive fights and compelling narratives.
